MANILA – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is eyeing to expand the scope of discounted medicines and medical devices not only for senior citizens, but also for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
In a statement, the FDA said this was discussed during a meeting among agency officials on the enforcement of Administrative Order No. 2024-0017, which removes senior citizens’ booklets as a requirement for discounted purchase of medicines for the elderly.
Before AO No. 2024-0017, senior citizens were required to present valid identification and a doctor’s prescription to avail themselves of medical discounts.
“Sa ginawang pagpupulong, pinag-aaralan din ng ahensiya ang posibleng pagpapalawig ng mga diskwento hindi lamang para sa mga senior citizens kundi pati na rin sa mga PWDs (During the meeting, the agency is also studying possible expansion of the discounts, not only for senior citizens, but also for PWDs,” the FDA said.
The FDA said it is also studying how to better enforce value-added tax (VAT) exemptions under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) law, and other discounts provided under various laws to expand benefits.
It is also planning to undertake a massive information campaign to enlighten the public on these benefits.
“Inaasahang magdudulot ang mga hakbang na ito ng mas pinadaling proseso sa mga transaksyon, at malaking tulong para sa mga senior citizens at PWDs, lalo na sa mga mahihirap na komunidad (These steps are expected to result in a simplified process on discounted transactions that would be a big help for senior citizens and PWDs, especially inn poor communities),” the FDA said.
It added that drug stores and healthcare providers would also benefit from the simplified transactions and streamlined discount process. (PNA)